Va., W.Va. geologists back uranium mining

BLACKSBURG, Va. (AP) ?€" Virginia and West Virginia members of the American Institute of Professional Geologists are supporting the mining of a rich

uranium deposit in southern Virginia.

The professional group representing approximately 250 geologists in the Virginias announced its support Friday of Virginia Uranium Inc.'s efforts to develop the Coles Hill deposit in Pittsylvania County.

The president of the Virginias section of the AIPG, Michael Lawless, said members overwhelmingly support the Virginia mining as a way to diversify the nation's energy policy and ease our reliance on foreign energy.

He said Virginia Uranium's local connection in Chatham was also key.

Virginia Uranium is proposing to mine the 119-million-pound deposit.

Opponents fear the mining and milling of uranium pose a risk to the environment, including water supplies.

Virginia has banned uranium mining since 1982.

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